Are you Vitamin D deficient?

Living in Los Angeles, I have always assumed that I am vitamin D abundant.

Turns out, that may not be the case. Last week, when I visited my doctor for my annual check-up, she had me tested for vitamin D. (Apparently Los Angelenos are often more vitamin D deficient than New Yorkers – because we are so loath to walk.)

Vitamin D is a hot topic right now because a new study indicates that many Americans are actually vitamin D deficient.

Why does that matter? Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium -- which is why most milk is vitamin D fortified. A lack of vitamin D has been linked to brittle bones, as well as to immune disorders and to a greater chance of catching a cold or the flu.  

How can you increase your vitamin D levels?

The most natural source of vitamin D – sun exposure, comes with caveats. Most of us now avoid direct sun exposure because of skin cancer and skin health concerns. In using sun block, we’re reducing the sun’s ability to create vitamin D. People with higher melanin levels, and darker skin, tend to be better protected against UVB rays, which create vitamin D.

So if the sun isn’t the best source, what is? Doctors are now recommending supplements to get what soon may be a daily recommended allowance of 800-1000 international units (where the adequate intake level used to be 200-400 IUs).

Not a fan of supplements? Other food sources are fish, eggs and cod liver oil. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, Vegan Society has a webpage on best vitamin D sources.